Brocken‑Challenge 2026

The Brocken‑Challenge is a demanding winter charity ultra‑marathon traversing from the city of Göttingen to the Brocken summit in the Harz. Runners tackle approximately 80–86 km with around 1,900 m of climbing on challenging winter trails and tracks, often in harsh and changeable conditions. Celebrated by participants and media alike, it blends endurance sport with a strong philanthropic mission. The event’s guiding motto, attributed to Goethe, underscores personal resolve and overcoming adversity.

Run as a charitable and experience‑focused event, participation fees and donations are forwarded in full to selected projects, with sponsors helping ensure that entry income can be donated 100%. Over two decades, the series has built a notable donation record and a loyal community. It has been described by NDR as “das härteste Rennen des Nordens,” and affectionately as “die längste Bio‑Messe der Welt” by participants, reflecting both its toughness and its ethos. The atmosphere is purpose‑driven, with camaraderie forged in winter conditions.

The 2026 edition is slated for mid‑February, continuing the classic point‑to‑point route to the Brockengipfel at 1,142 m. Athletes should be prepared for snow, ice, wind and cold, which can be decisive factors on the day. While the exact operational details are announced by the organiser in due course, the hallmark features remain: a long winter ultra, meaningful giving, and rugged mountain finish. Prospective participants typically monitor the official site for the latest updates on logistics and participation.